In Apple's highly anticipated iPhone 16 series set to launch later this year, there may be a couple of notable missing features. According to a report by prominent analyst Ming-Chi Kuo from TFI Securities, the upcoming iPhones will not see any significant design changes, and the integration of generative AI on a larger scale is unlikely to happen until at least 2025.
Kuo's insights have gained credibility over the years, making his predictions worth considering. He highlights that Apple has lowered its 2024 iPhone component shipments by 15%, potentially leading to the most significant decline among major global mobile phone brands in that year. This shift can be attributed to the emergence of a new trend in high-end mobile phone design.
As consumers prioritize certain features when purchasing expensive smartphones, two elements carry particular weight—AI and foldable technology. While a foldable iPhone is not expected anytime soon, rumors have been circulating about significant AI changes coming with the next iOS update at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June. However, Kuo suggests that Apple will not introduce a more comprehensive and differentiated GenAI ecosystem until 2025 or later.
Looking at this positively, if iOS 18 does bring substantial AI changes as speculated, we can only imagine the possibilities for the following year. It seems that Apple may have some exciting advancements in store for its user base.
Kuo also predicts a continued decline in iPhone shipments in the Chinese market due to a preference for foldable phones in the premium segment, as well as the resurgence of Huawei. After facing restrictions on international product sales, Huawei has experienced a recent comeback.
Regarding the iPhone 16's design, the report suggests that Apple will not introduce any significant design changes until 2025 or beyond. However, numerous leaks have already surfaced, hinting at potential updates for the upcoming lineup. These include different displays on select models, a wider implementation of the impressive tetraprism camera, advancements in the new-generation processors, improved camera lenses, more efficient OLED displays, enhanced thermal design, better battery life, an improved microphone for Siri, an additional button for video shooting, and an upgraded main camera sensor.
Considering the aforementioned rumored updates, it might seem contradictory to claim no significant design changes if Apple delivers on these enhancements. Nevertheless, it's still early in the year, and more leaks could emerge before the iPhone 16 series is officially unveiled. If Kuo's statement about the magnitude of improvements in 2025 is accurate, it certainly heightens anticipation for future iPhone models.
Overall, while the iPhone 16 series may not bring drastic design modifications and the expected AI advancements might be postponed, Apple enthusiasts can still look forward to potential upgrades in various key features. With Apple's history of surprising users, the wait until the fall is filled with anticipation.
